Computer Technology

Transfer option

Frequently Asked Questions

• Do I need prior tech experience to get started?

  No. CCC’s Computer Technology programs are designed to take you from the very beginning. Courses are scaffolded, meaning each one builds on the last, so you do not need to know anything about computers before you enroll.

• Do I get a certification after every class?

  Not automatically, but many courses align directly with industry certification exams. Completing courses in networking, security, and hardware support prepares you to sit for CompTIA A+, Network+, and Security+ exams. Exam fees are separate from tuition and are your responsibility to schedule and pay for. Talk with the program coordinator for current exam fee information.

• Can I complete the degree or certificate entirely online?

  No. Several required courses, including CIS 130, networking, and security, are only offered in person at the Fourth Street Campus in Flagstaff. Students who cannot attend in-person classes will not be able to complete the degree or the certificate. If you are a Page Campus student or live outside of Flagstaff, please speak with an advisor before enrolling.

• How long will it take to finish?

  It depends on how many classes you take each semester. The AAS degree takes approximately two years full time or four years part time. The certificate takes approximately one year full time or two years part time, taking one class per semester sequentially. Because this is a small department, most classes are only offered once per year, so your sequence matters. Work with your advisor to plan carefully.

• Can I transfer my CIS credits to a four-year university?

  The Computer Technology AAS is a workforce degree, not a transfer degree. Credits may transfer to four-year universities as electives, but they are generally not accepted as lower-division prerequisites for bachelor’s programs. NAU and the University of Arizona are the most aligned institutions if you are considering continued education. Meet with an advisor before choosing electives so you can maximize what transfers if that is part of your plan.

• What is the difference between the AAS degree and the certificate?

  The certificate is a focused, faster pathway that covers the core skills for IT support roles and prepares you for CompTIA certifications. It does not include general education coursework. The AAS degree includes general education, takes longer, and gives you a broader skill set with the ability to specialize in programming, hardware, or security through elective tracks. The certificate is a good fit if you want to get working quickly. The AAS is a better fit if you want a wider range of career options or plan to eventually pursue a bachelor’s degree using your credits as electives.